Savor the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this wholesome and satisfying recipe for Mediterranean Diet Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce. Featuring tender pasta shells tossed in a hearty tomato-based sauce, this dish is a celebration of simple, healthy ingredients. Fresh veggies like red bell peppers and zucchini add a pop of color and nutrients, while oregano and fresh basil infuse the sauce with aromatic herbs. Each bite is elevated with tangy crumbled feta and briny kalamata olives, creating a perfectly balanced medley of flavors. Quick to prepare in just 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Plus, it aligns beautifully with the principles of the Mediterranean diet, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the shells evenly in the tomato sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced kalamata olives.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Calories |
2158 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 73.0 g | 94% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.7 g | 118% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 100 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 5117 mg | 222% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 310.1 g | 113% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.5 g | 116% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.1 g | ||
| Protein | 75.4 g | 151% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1107 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 28.1 mg | 156% | |
| Potassium | 3660 mg | 78% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.